Pumpkin Baozi

History of Pumpkin Baozi

Pumpkin Baozi, a variant of traditional Chinese steamed buns, is an exquisite combination of fluffy dough and a sweet pumpkin filling. The baozi, having a rich history in Chinese culinary tradition, originates from Northern China where wheat, rather than rice, is a staple. Legend has it that the treat was invented by the strategist Zhuge Liang during the Three Kingdoms period. Adapting this historical food to include pumpkin is a more contemporary twist, capitalizing on the natural sweetness and vibrant color of pumpkin.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Baozi

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 300g pumpkin (plus extra for garnish)
• 200ml water
• 50g sugar
• 7g active dry yeast
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Optional: ginger for flavoring

Preparation of Ingredients

Begin by preparing the pumpkin. Peel and cube it, then steam until tender to make it easy to mash. This will form the basis of your filling. Ensure the flour is sifted to remove any lumps which ensures a smooth dough. Dissolve the yeast in warm water until frothy, this will activate the yeast ready for the dough. Have the remaining ingredients ready at hand.

Making the Baozi Dough

Mix the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Slowly add the yeast mixture and continuously stir until a dough starts to form. Knead this dough on a floured surface until soft and elastic, approximately 10 minutes. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm area for at least an hour or until it doubles in size.

Preparing the Pumpkin Filling

Mash the cooked pumpkin in a bowl, adding a little sugar if it needs additional sweetness. If you're adding ginger, grate a small piece and mix it in. Ensure that the filling is smooth and free of lumps.

Assembling the Pumpkin Baozi

Once the dough has risen, punch it down, and knead it once more on a lighted floured surface. Divide the dough into small equal parts and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten each dough ball into a disk about 4 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of the pumpkin filling in the center of each disk. Gather the edges of the dough to the top and pinch them together to completely encase the filling. Twist the top slightly to secure.

Cooking the Pumpkin Baozi

Arrange the bun in a steamer lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Cover and allow them to rest for another 15 minutes while you set up the steamer on high heat. Fill your steamer pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place the prepared buns in the steamer and cover it. Steam for about 15-20 minutes. For best results, monitor the cooking timer closely to avoid overcooking.

Serving Pumpkin Baozi

After steaming, switch off the heat but let the pumpkin baozi sit for five more minutes in the steamer before uncovering them. This prevents them from collapsing. Carefully transfer the buns to a platter and serve warm. They pair wonderfully with jasmine tea or soy milk. For a more elaborate presentation, garnish with thin slices of pumpkin or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

How to Fully Enjoy Pumpkin Baozi

These delightful buns can be enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack. Their soft, fluffy texture combined with the sweet, earthy flavor of pumpkin makes them irresistible. For a rich culinary experience, enjoy slowly, savoring the warm, sweet filling and fluffiness of the steamed dough with each bite. Additionally, dipping the baozi in a small dish of light soy sauce can complement the natural sweetness with a hint of saltiness, enhancing the depth of flavors.